From Waiheke Island & Ponui Island which lies just to the west of Waiheke. It is the Ponui portion that originally dictated the style of this Pinot Gris – the grapes can only be barged off the island when the tides are suitable and this also dictates picking times. This originally resulted in a late pick style which became hugely popular and is continued today. The aromas burst out of the glass redolent of apricots and ginger spice. The sweetness is balanced by fine acidity. Unctuous and delicious.
Winery notes (2024 Vintage)
"Named in tribute to Napoleon’s final place of exile where he was banished after his defeat at Waterloo. Exiled is awarded to our most prized Pinot Gris, made exclusively from the St Helena clone grown on our Ponui & Waiheke Island vineyards.
Our picking schedule has had a huge influence on the evolution of Exiled. Early picking preserve’s acidity and hits a greener flavour profile that is incredibly interesting, then allowing successive picks to add layers of fruit, ripeness and complexity. The pH and acid profile, modest alcohol and the retained residual sugar are all discretely packed into a wine of elegance and finesse.
The Exiled 2024 has a beautiful fruit expression, freshly picked nectarine, green apple and grilled limes with a matching structure; fresh, crisp and juicy. A long palate highlights the acidity of fresh fruit balanced with the natural sugar culminating in a dry clean finish with a hint of saltiness for a final flourish."
Rated Excellent & 93/100 Cameron Douglas MS, November 2024 (2024 Vintage)
"A vibrant and nicely intense bouquet of ripe white fleshed fruits, nectarine and peach then a layer of citrus and spice. Fleshy textures touch the palate first with a contrasting acid line, then flavours of white fleshed stone fruits, flowers and white spice. Balanced and well made with great mouthfeel and finish. Best drinking from 2024 through 2028+."
Reviews for the 2023 vintage below…
Number 9, WineFolio.co.nz Top 10 Pinot Gris Tasting, April 2024 (2023 Vintage)
"Quite a ‘medium’ sweetness and weight – but carries it well – light and jazzy through the palate. Spiced apple cake, lemon curd, pear and mandarin on the nose. Bright, zesty acidity and some “phenolic, peppery bitters offset the sweetness”. Not following fashion, but keeping marching to the beat of its own drum. One to put a smile on your dial."